Millions of Pakistanis get government fuel relief but some miss out

What the report says

Pakistan’s government says more than 9.5 million people have received subsidised petrol through a fuel relief programme introduced in September, according to Al Jazeera. The scheme offers a 100-rupee-per-litre discount for owners of motorcycles, rickshaws and small cars with engines up to 800cc, with eligibility and redemption handled through a text-message system. Officials say the measure was designed to soften the impact of sharply higher fuel prices after the war on Iran raised energy costs and added to inflationary pressure.

Al Jazeera reported that the plan has undergone changes after user complaints, including free registration and removal of a minimum purchase requirement. Government figures cited in the article say most of the tokens have gone to two- and three-wheelers, while far fewer have gone to cars. Officials have also said the programme could run for several months, though Pakistan remains under an IMF loan programme and the fund is reportedly pushing for relief to stay targeted and limited in duration.

Some economists told Al Jazeera that the support is helpful but incomplete. They said households that rely on public transport, diesel vehicles or walking to work may receive nothing, even as their living costs rise. The article also notes that Pakistan continues to collect a petroleum levy on each litre of fuel, which critics say limits how much relief consumers actually feel. Overall, the scheme appears aimed at lower-income motorists, but questions remain about how broadly it helps the most vulnerable households.